Why Nemanja Vidic Will Be Back to His Best for Manchester United Next Season

Manchester United's relentless march to Premier League glory last season somewhat overshadowed some serious defensive deficiencies through the first half of the season.

Wobbles at the back were picked apart by opposition strikers taken aback by the ease in which they could walk the ball into the net.

Two goals were conceded against Fulham and Southampton; in 3-2 wins albeit.

Gareth Bale terrorised the Red Devils' back line in a 2-3 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. Even Reading scored three against United.

It is testament to the side's attack that these woes did not see Sir Alex Ferguson's side slip dangerously down the ladder.

In mid-winter, around late-December, everything changed.

The man who had been missing through injury for a year returned. Nemanja Vidic saved the Manchester United defence.

The Serbian brute had twisted his knee in a Champions League clash with Basel in December, 2011. He made a few appearances at the beginning of the 2012/13 campaign, but it was clear the problem was not resolved.

His rather comedic, inadvertant goal against Liverpool in January this year was a notable moment. He was back.

In 11 fixtures between December 29 and March 30, United conceded only three goals.

Where the team looked fragile and shaky from set pieces before, Vidic's return inspired a rediscovered confidence.

For he is this team's leader.

During David Moyes' first press conference, Vidic sat next to the new United boss, saying all the right things. As reported in The Independent:

"

I'm looking forward to working with David and I believe I will have the same success I had with Sir Alex.

David and Sir Alex share some similarities - they are very passionate, they are both winners and you can see the way they approach the games and how they run things.

"

Vidic suits the uncompromising Moyes style to a tee.

As Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones fight for the number two spot next term, Vidic will be almost undroppable.

He is the leader on the pitch as well as off it.

His presence is as commanding as Jaap Stam and Steve Bruce before him. He is an immensely strong character capable of inspiring men.

There is no finer player in the air than Vidic. When a cross comes into the penalty area, you would bet your house on him winning the 50/50.

At 31, he is still in his peak as a footballer.

He may not be as quick on his feet as he once was, but this lack has been replaced by an increasing footballing intelligence and awareness.

The competition for places in the Red Devils' back line will only encourage him to play his best and impress his new manager.

This is a World Cup season as well.

Last season he was immense. His best form has never been too far away.

Manchester United fans can expect more of the same next season.

What do you think next season has in store for Nemanja Vidic?

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